As many varieties of perennials are subject to root rot diseases such as Pythium, Rhizoctonia and Fusarium, it becomes evident that measures should be taken at the time of potting to prevent the infection and subsequent loss of plants. 

Use of RootShield® biological fungicide at the time of potting (RootShield Granules incorporated into the media or drench with RootShield WP) will offer the root rot  protection necessary for excellent establishment and continued protection for up to three months. Should you find it necessary to carry the plants over the winter months, a  healthy root system will be an important factor to the survival of these plants. Upon the arrival of spring, the plants will be emerging from dormancy and subject to the continual pressures of root rot disease -- an important time to refortify the initial shield of protection.  A re-application of RootShield WP as a drench at half rate, will provide another three months protection, providing for a saleable plant during the spring sales period.

In these tough economic times it is imperative that if you start a crop, you finish and sell the crop! Like Smokey says, "only you can prevent forest fires". Take the responsible, economical and proven measure of using RootShield to prevent losses from root rot and help ensure a successful crop.  Talk to your regional BioWorks representative for additional technical support, and we'll help lead you down the path to improved profitability. Wishing you all great success in the coming year!

As you kick in your spring plantings of pansies, petunias and other annuals, use RootShield to get those young delicate plugs off to a great start.  Give them the protection they need while they are weaker, to ward off damaging pathogens, allowing them to become stronger and less susceptible to attack.  Remember, a healthy plug root system keeps your customers happy!

CEASE® and MilStop® work well together as a tank mix to fight bacterial pathogens that cause Erwinia, Xanthamonas, Pseudomonas as well as fungal pathogens that cause Botrytis and powdery mildew.  Good results have been seen from trials done at the University of Florida by Dr. David Norman.

Rates for high volume spray applications:

CEASE: 2-8 qts./100 gal. per acre
MilStop:  1-3 lbs/100 gal. per acre

CEASE/MilStop Tank Mix:  4 qts. CEASE and 1.5 lbs MilStop per 100 gallons, per acre

Rick Yates, Technical Services Manager of Griffin Greenhouse & Nursery Supplies, has recommended using CEASE in thermal and other low volume foggers in greenhouses for years, observing consistently positive results.

 

Rates for ultra low volume/thermal foggers:

"How RootShield Works."  John Francis, Director of Technical Services will provide an in-depth look at how the active ingredient, T-22 works so effectively.